What does annexe mean?
An annexe is a building, or a distinct part of one, that has been added onto or stands beside a larger structure in order to extend its space or function. Schools add annexes for overflow classrooms, hospitals use them for clinics, and homeowners may turn a small annexe into a guest suite or self-contained flat. The word is the standard British spelling of the noun; American English uses "annex", which also serves as a verb meaning to take over territory or attach something formally. The term comes from the Latin annectere, "to bind to", via Old French, so at heart an annexe is literally something tied on. It tends to appear in formal or institutional contexts, carrying the connotation of a useful but subordinate addition — never the principal building itself. Knowing the word helps in reading property listings, architectural descriptions, and news about institutions that have outgrown their original premises.
nounA building or part of a building added onto, or adjoining, a larger one and used as an extension of it.
- A building or section added to, or adjoining, a larger building to extend its capacity or function.
"The hotel's annexe housed the conference rooms and additional guest suites."
"The library's new annexe doubled its reading space."
"They converted the garden annexe into a self-contained flat for her elderly parents."
The plural follows regular -es inflection.
"The hospital's two annexes were built during the 1970s expansion."
Brits build an 'annexe', Americans build an 'annex' — same Latin root meaning 'to tie to', just a different way of spelling the knot.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of annexe
"Annexe" derives from the Latin verb annectere, formed from ad- ("to") plus nectere ("to bind or tie"), meaning to fasten or join something on. The word entered English through Old French in the early modern period, alongside the related noun and verb "annex". English retained both spellings for centuries, but "annexe" settled as the preferred form for the noun in British usage, while American English standardized on "annex". Its cousins include "annexation", "connect", and "nexus", all tracing back to the same Latin root for binding.
How annexe is actually used
"Annexe" is the usual British spelling for the noun; American English writes "annex" for both noun and verb. The term carries a slightly formal, institutional tone and often implies a secondary or supplementary structure rather than the main building.
Easily confused with annexe
"Annex" is the standard American spelling for both the noun and the verb, while "annexe" is chiefly the British spelling of the noun.